Leapfrog LeapPad2 Learning Tablet Review

Last year my boys got the LeapPad and ever since they have barely let it out of their hands.

Some of my favorite features of the original LeapPad:

• Games compatible with Leapster Explorer and LeapPad (we have both so its nice not to buy different games)
• Ability to download games through an App store at reasonable prices
• Built-in Camera and video recorder
• Good size for kids to play and hold in their hands
• Stylus included and can be attached with string

The new LeapPad 2 has all the above features and then some!

Main differences between LeapPad 2 and LeapPad:

• Camera in Front and Back of LeapPad 2 (only 1 camera on back of LeapPad)
• Bigger Memory Size (4 GB compared to 2 GB)
• Recharger available
• Up to 9 hrs. of battery life (compared to only up to 8 hrs.)
• Bigger Processor (550 Mhz vs. 393 Mhz.)

Since we have both I can compare them enough to say the new LeapPad is pretty sweet! While I wouldn’t replace your current LeapPad if it works just fine, the new LeapPad is definitely something to think about if you don’t own one. The changes are somewhat small but the two cameras is what does it for us. My sons love taking pictures of themselves and it is much easier to take them with a front camera. The memory size I am sure will come in handy too because we were getting to the point that we downloaded so many apps (average price $5) that we had to pick and choose what went on the device. Not all of our apps fit on our old LeapPad so it is nice to fill up our new LeapPad 2 with some room to spare. A quick thing on the apps too is that there is a good variety available including videos, games, ebooks and even some full cartridge games. There is actually over a 100+ of cartridges and apps available to check out.

I think LeapFrog has finally listened to parents too by making devices that use old games so you don’t have to buy new games constantly. Now don’t get me wrong, there are new games out like “Brave” and “Phineas & Ferb” though to keep kids excited. The processor is something I didn’t necessarily notice the speed of, though that could be because my boys don’t let me on it long enough to notice!

We also got the games Phineas & Ferb and Brave to check out.  My boys couldn’t be happier – at this moment those are two of their favorites!  Both games have tons of content on them and are keeping my boys busy.

Overall, we love the LeapPad 2. It has everything I’d want in a tablet for my preschooler and it will grow with my child. The recommend ages are 3-9 years old and my sons are 4 and 5, with no inkling that they are letting it go. Now I will say I have a friend who her son thought it was too babyish compared to the Nintendo DS his older siblings had, but while it may seem babyish it is more than appropriate for kids. The games and books grow with your child and become more challenging as they continue on. The games are in-line with their ages and you don’t have to worry about in-appropriate content or them doing something you don’t want them to. Oh and once you hook up the LeapPad 2 to the computer you can check your child’s play and learning progress, redeem rewards (print certificates or downloads), and create a personalized learning experience by customizing their name and favorites.

My video review:

BUY IT:  Look for the LeapPad2 at your local retailer this month for a suggested retail of $99.99!

Mom and More Disclosure: I was sent this product to review in exchange for my honest opinion. Please see my Disclosure Policy.